Half of these players stand in the bases on
their own side, the captain's base completing the circle and being
nearest the dividing line. The other players of the team, called
guards, are stationed at the opening of the game each near one of the
opponents' bases on the opposite side of the ground from his own
basemen. Each guard is chiefly responsible throughout for guarding his
particular base; but all guards may move about freely in the
opponents' territory without stepping within the rings (bases).

OBJECTS OF GAME.--The objects of the game are, (1) to pass the ball
from baseman to baseman in one circle; or (2) entirely around one of
the circles without its being caught by the opponents' guards, who
seek to gain possession of it; and (3) for any baseman or guard to
throw the ball as many times as possible to his own captain. The
guards try not only to prevent the passage of the ball around the
circle or its reaching their opponents' captain, but also to gain
possession of the ball and throw it over to the opposite side to their
own basemen and captain.

START.--The ball is put in play at the opening of the game, and after
each catch by a captain, and after each foul, by being tossed by a
neutral person in the center of the ground, the guards on both sides
trying to get possession of it. The ball is not considered caught
unless it be held in both hands. Any guard so catching it has an
opportunity to throw it to his own captain or one of his basemen. The
guards on the opposite side of course try to prevent such a catch.

RULES.--It is considered a fair catch for any baseman, including the
captain, if the ball be caught on a bound either from the floor,
ceiling, or any other object, or from hitting another player.

A ball that goes afield is secured by the guard standing nearest the
point where it left the circle. He puts it in play from the point in
the circle where it went out.

Other rules are indicated under "Fouls."

FOULS.--It is a foul (1) to kick the ball; (2) to run with the ball;
(3) for a guard to step over the dividing line or inside one of the
bases; (4) for a baseman to step outside of his own base, even with
one foot; (5) to hand the ball instead of tossing; (6) to snatch or
bat the ball from an opponent's hands; (7) to hold the ball longer
than time enough to turn around quickly, or three seconds.

One point is scored by the opponents whenever a foul is made, and the
ball is then put in play aga